Area Production Specialist - Worcester

Production, Maintenance & Technical Services

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

The successful candidate will serve as the first point of contact for our vegetable seed growers and third-party producers, playing a vital role in overseeing and enhancing production activities.

This position entails ensuring the high-quality production of seeds, from soil preparation through to post-harvest activities.

Please note that this role requires extensive travel, which may extend beyond the region and include areas outside of the Western Cape.

Duties will include the following:

1. Represent the company as the first point of contact for vegetable seed growers and third-party producers.
2. Assist with all aspects of seed production from soil preparation to harvest, post-harvest threshing, and pre-cleaning activities.
3. Establish a reliable grower base in the area ensuring long-term sustainability.
4. Develop new growers and improve growing methods in the region.
5. Follow and advise growers on best practices in all aspects of growing crops including rogueing, maintaining field isolation, crop rotation, irrigation, chemical and fertilizer application, harvesting, and cleaning of seeds.
6. Ensure that production goals are met in their region for both yield and quality.
7. Identify and provide recommendations to challenges facing production with the goal of continually improving all areas.
8. Ensure accurate reporting on the progress of ongoing productions and recording of production data required.
9. Manage and evaluate nicking and production research trials.
10. Ensure proper field inspections and certification.
11. Supervise roguing crews and keep records of off types removed.
12. Support the maintenance of area and variety-specific crop production protocols and keep track of the costs of cultivation.
13. Actively contribute as an Area Crop Specialist in the global collaboration platform on the latest and most advanced production practices and research.

WHAT YOU OFFER

1. Agricultural Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Sciences or Agricultural Management.
2. Minimum of 3 years' experience in vegetable seed production.
3. Strong knowledge of seed production techniques and processing technologies.
4. Familiarity with production research practices.
5. SANSOR-trained or in the process of obtaining Phytosanitary Inspectors accreditation.
6. Pesticide (AVCASA) and Fertilizer (BASOS) consultant accreditations preferred.
7. Expert knowledge in vegetable seed production.
8. Understanding of pollination methods and ability to identify off-types.
9. Proficient in MS Office and capable of operating farm machinery.
10. Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Diversity is our greatest strength! Become a part of our winning formula for success and develop the future with us - in a global team that embraces inclusion and equal opportunities irrespective of gender, age, origin, sexual orientation, disability or belief.